The La Habra City Council meeting on June 2, 2025, focused primarily on the presentation of the city’s budget, highlighting the contributions of city staff and addressing future capital improvement projects.

During the meeting, Finance Manager Mel Shannick was recognized for his significant role in preparing the budget, which may be his final presentation to the council. Council members expressed their gratitude for his dedication and fiscal responsibility, emphasizing the collaborative effort of the entire finance team in developing the budget.

The budget presentation included a detailed overview of capital improvement projects, with a specific focus on those that remain unfunded. City Manager Jim Sadro explained that many projects on the deferred list lack designated funding sources, making them reliant on the general fund, which is primarily allocated for operational expenses. He noted that the council prioritizes projects based on available funding and community needs, often deferring less critical projects in favor of those that address immediate liabilities.

Council members also took the opportunity to thank city staff for their hard work and commitment, acknowledging the extensive effort that goes into the budget preparation process. The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the city’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency, as well as a call for continued community support.

Overall, the meeting underscored the importance of teamwork within the city government and the ongoing challenges of funding essential projects while maintaining a balanced budget.